Golden Plate Awards 2014

Published: Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at 8:16 a.m.

Last Modified: Tuesday, May 6, 2014 at 8:16 a.m.

Jennifer Audette, assistant metro editor for The Ledger, second from left, presents the Golden Plate Award for Best Restaurant in Polk to Texas Roadhouse, represented by Manager Craig Pickard. This is the third year The Ledger has presented the Golden Plate Awards, and Visit Central Florida served as a sponsor of this year’s awards. Representing Visit Central Florida are, from left, Glenda Primeau, Jeanie Baier, Joni Allen, John Loute and Sarah Cox.

That's how many people voted in the final round of the Ledger Media Group's third annual Golden Plate Awards.

That yielded winners in 30 categories, from beverages and appetizers to desserts and Best Restaurant in Polk County.

We freshened up some of our categories this year as well. Categories that kept yielding the same winner each year were put on hiatus and replaced with some other topics, such as Best Doughnuts, Best Chicken Soup and Best Sub Sandwich.

We started the voting process by asking in February for nominations of Polk County restaurants and had dozens and dozens of responses. We then held the first round of voting in March to pare the lists to the top five restaurants.

Round 2 allowed voters to select the top three restaurants from that list. The top three vote-getters were for French fries, burgers and subs – we are serious about our casual food.

The winners as well as any honorable mentions are included in the following pages of this issue.

We hope you enjoy this special edition and continue to look at it throughout the year as you're looking for places to dine.

BEST MARGARITA | BEST MILKSHAKE | BEST MOZZARELLA STICKS | BEST GARLIC ROLLS | BEST CHIPS AND SALSA | BEST CRAB CAKES | BEST CAESAR SALAD | BEST CHICKEN SOUP | BEST CHICKEN WINGS | BEST FRENCH FRIES | BEST BLT | BEST CUBAN SANDWICH | BEST SUB SANDWICH | BEST FISH SANDWICH | BEST BURGERS | BEST FRIED CHICKEN | BEST PIZZA | BEST TACOS | BEST RIBS | BEST STEAK | BEST SUSHI | BEST APPLE PIE | BEST CHOCOLATE CAKE | BEST DOUGHNUTS | BEST PLACE FOR KIDS | BEST ASIAN BUFFET | BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT | BEST SOUTHERN COOKING | MOST ROMANTIC AMBIENCE | BEST RESTAURANT IN POLKBEST MARGARITA
Abuelo's
3700 Lakeside Village Blvd., Lakeland
863-686-7500; www.abuelos.com
All that shaking going on behind the handsome bar at Abuelo's is mostly dedicated to the fine craft of mixing spot-on margaritas. Of course, top-notch ingredients make a difference, and this popular chain of Mexican eateries employs a full spectrum of top-shelf tequilas, so you can tailor your cocktail with lip-smacking precision. Sweet or dry, straight up or on the rocks. Abuelo's covers all the bases.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: $6.50 to $9.25.
WHAT MAKES YOUR MARGARITAS SPECIAL? We offer a Platinum Margarita, made with El Jimador Silver Tequila, Agavero Orange liquor, and sweetened lime juice. The Agave Margarita features 1800 Silver Tequila, Blue Agave Nectar, and hand-squeezed lime juice.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
CHILI'S BAR & GRILL, All Locations
MANNY'S CHOPHOUSE, All Locations
BEST MILKSHAKE
Andy's Drive-In Restaurant (also known as Andy's Igloo)
703 Third St. S.W., Winter Haven, 863-293-0019;
www.facebook.com/pages/ANDYS-IGLOO/
121614487865712
Polk County's love affair with the creamy, frozen shakes at this Winter Haven institution continues, with owner Popi Nouaros carrying on a tradition that began well over 60 years ago. Her signature shake begins with a blend of flavoring and plain old vanilla frozen custard. You can toss in bits of candy or cookie crumbs if you want, along with a spritz of strawberry syrup, but nothing beats a simple vanilla malted. Or try one of the newer additions — Big Eddy — a shake finished with a towering swirl of frozen custard.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: Small is $2.45, regular is $2.95, Big Daddy with extra ice cream is $3.45.
FLAVORS: Vanilla, chocolate, chocolate-chip, strawberry, cherry, pineapple, fruit salad, butterscotch, hot fudge, walnuts, coffee, and banana. To add malt, dip top or hot fudge, it is 25 cents extra.
WHAT MAKES YOUR MILKSHAKE SPECIAL? All shakes start with soft-serve ice cream, fresh fruit or flavor is added, and milk is added and mixed on a milkshake machine.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
STEAK 'N SHAKE, Lakeland
BURGER 21, Lakeland
BEST MOZZARELLA STICKS
Carrabba's Italian Grill
4829 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-646-2518; 910 Third St. S.W., Winter Haven, 863-293-6635; 1205 Townsgate Court, Plant City, 813-752-0760
www.carrabbas.com
Bite into the crunchy, golden crust and be prepared to tangle with the cheesy, chewy string that seems to stretch forever. Carrabba's cheese sticks are seasoned just right, and come with a side of warm marinara for dipping.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: $9 as appetizer
WHAT MAKES YOUR MOZZARELLA STICKS SPECIAL? These mozzarella sticks are made with whole milk mozzarella and are hand-breaded in Italian bread crumbs. They are then lightly fried and served with marinara sauce.
HONORABLE MENTION:
CHECKERS, All Locations
BEST GARLIC ROLLS
PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN
114 S. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland, 863-688-0045
PALACE PIZZA MULBERRY
2054 Shepherd Road, Mulberry, 863-7709-0002
PALACE PIZZA BARTOW
105 E. Main St., Bartow, 863-533-9300
PALACE PIZZA HIGHLAND CITY
5235 U.S. 98 S., Highland City, 863-709-8683
When ordering a slice at Palace Pizza (more a pizzeria than its sister eateries, Palace Italian Restaurants), it's hard to resist asking for a couple of garlic knots to go along with your meal. Palace's garlic knots are oven roasted and bursting with flavor, but not overpowering with the garlic. The knots are definitely something you want to make sure you have some napkins handy while eating, unless you lick your fingers. For those looking for less of a mess, the traditional garlic bread comes in stick form. Each are complimented well with a side cup of Palace's own marinara sauce.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $3.99 for an order of six. All pasta dishes and entrees also served with garlic knots or garlic bread.
WHAT MAKES YOUR GARLIC KNOTS SPECIAL? Our garlic knots are made of fresh dough daily, then tossed with a special blend of garlic, butter and spices. They are crispy outside and fluffy inside.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
OLIVE GARDEN, All Locations
PRIMO'S PIZZERIA, Lakeland
BEST CHIPS AND SALSA
Abuelo's Mexican Restaurant
3700 Lakeside Village Blvd., Lakeland, 863-686-7500, www.abuelos.com
Chips and salsa is an essential appetizer for any sit-down Mexican restaurant, but for some people the chips and salsa are the main attraction. Abuelo's offers each table a sample of three salsas with each basket of chips. The salsas include a green sweet salsa made with pineapple and two tomato-based salsas — one medium and one hot. It's up to you to figure out which salsa is your favorite. The chips are served warm and very thin. If you're dining with a big group, make sure you dig in quickly because the chips and salsa won't last long.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: Free when dining in, $6.29 to add guacamole or chile con queso.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CHIPS AND SALSA SPECIAL? Our chips and salsa feature crisp corn tortilla chips alongside handmade salsa, made daily, with the freshest ingredients.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
TAPATIO'S, Lakeland
MOE'S SOUTHWEST GRILL, Lakeland
BEST CRAB CAKES
Harry's Seafood Bar & Grille
101 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland, 863-686-2228; www.hookedonharrys.com
This small, Florida-based chain with five locations draws inspiration from New Orleans for many of its dishes, including its crisp, pan-seared crab cakes. Loaded with sweet, lump crab, these beauties are jazzed up with bits of onion and red bell pepper, then drizzled with a fancy mayo-based sauce flavored with roasted red pepper.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: Appetizer, $10.99; lunch entrée, $11.99; dinner entrée, $16.99. In the appetizer and lunch entrée, two 3-ounce cakes are served. In the dinner entrée, guests receive three 3-ounce cakes along with a choice of a side item.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CRAB CAKES SPECIAL? Our crab cakes are pan-seared and served with a roasted red pepper aioli.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
BONEFISH GRILL, Lakeland
FRANK & MANNY'S HARBORSIDE, Winter Haven
BEST CAESAR SALAD
Outback Steakhouse
5255 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-648-1019; 4208 US 98 N, Lakeland, 863-858-9468;
170 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven,
863-295-9800; www.outback.com
Outback may have steak in its name, but that doesn't mean their chefs are limited to knowledge around the grill. Outback's Caesar salad features a good balance of salad, housemade Caesar dressing, croutons and Parmesan cheese. Top the salad with some wood-fire grilled chicken and you've got a tasty appetizer good enough for a full meal.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $7.99 for lunch with either chicken or shrimp, or as a combo meal item. $10.99 for dinner with chicken or shrimp. May also order as a side salad.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CAESAR SALAD SO SPECIAL? We use freshly made croutons and our signature dressing with crisp and fresh romaine lettuce.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
HARRY'S SEAFOOD BAR & GRILLE, Lakeland
CARRABBA'S, All Locations
BEST CHICKEN SOUP
Purple Onion Deli & Grill
316 N. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland, 863-688-5590; www.facebook.com/PurpleOnionDeliGrill
When people think of chicken noodle soup, most people think of the kind that comes in a can at the grocery store. But for those looking for a soup made with some tender loving care, make sure to try the Chicken Noodle Soup at the Purple Onion Deli & Grill. The chefs at the Purple Onion make all their soups fresh every day. Purple Onion's Chicken Noodle Soup is part of its soup rotation so make sure you check the restaurant's Facebook page to see which soups are available.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $4.29, served with grilled Cuban bread and crackers.
WHAT MAKES YOUR SOUP SPECIAL? We make all of our soups daily with only the freshest ingredients.
HONORABLE MENTION:
CARRABBA'S, All Locations
BEST FRENCH FRIES
Five Guys
2641 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-686-5552; 4660 N. Socrum Loop Road, Lakeland, 863-853-3183; 399 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven, 863-297-5555; www.fiveguys.com
There is a level of transparency that is always appreciated when dining at Five Guys. When you walk in, you can see the origin of the potatoes used for the french fries. Five Guys fries are cooked fresh in peanut oil and with no freezers on the premises, you know the fries are cooked fresh. If you are dining for one, make sure you ask for a small order of fries because Five Guys is always generous with its portions of fries. For an added kick, try the fries with Cajun seasoning poured on top.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $2.79 for little fries, $3.79 for regular size, $5.09 for large fries. All sizes have the option of Cajun seasoning.
WHAT MAKES YOUR FRENCH FRIES SPECIAL? We cook our fries in 100 percent peanut oil and make them fresh.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
MANNY'S ORIGINAL CHOPHOUSE, All Locations
BEEF 'O' BRADY'S, All Locations
BEST CHICKEN WINGS
Beef 'O'Brady's
1070 Wedgewood Estates Blvd., Lakeland, 863-853-9464; 4810 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-646-7757;
102 W. Polk St., Auburndale, 863-968-0010;
120 E. Van Fleet Drive, Bartow, 863-534-3111;
2418 Jim Redman Parkway, Plant City, 813-757-0300;
300 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven, 863-293-9464; 902 Old Polk City Road, Haines City, 863-419-4848; 45653 U.S. 27, Davenport, 863-420-3350;
19598 U.S. 27, Lake Wales, 863-679-1975;
www.beefobrady's.com
If variety is the spice of life, it's up to you to decide how spicy you want life to be. Beef 'O' Brady's offers 12 wing sauce flavors and two dry-rub seasonings for you to choose from. For those who like their wings hot, Beef's hot sauce isn't too overpowering, but if you really want to feel the burn, go with the nuclear sauce. That'll have you reaching for a glass of water in no time. Beef's also offers boneless wings for those who don't want to work so hard for their meat.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $7 and up.
HOW MANY CHICKEN WINGS COME IN A SERVING: $8.59 for eight wings, $10.69 for eight wings served with fries and creamy coleslaw. Chicken wings are also available as an order of 12, 18, 25, and more.
SAUCES INCLUDE: Garlic Parmesan, Honey BBQ, Teriyaki, Sweet Jalepeño, Mild, Beef's Signature Buffalo, Medium, Spicy Garlic, Hot, Mango Habanero, Extra Hot, and Nuclear. They also offer dry rubs in Lemon Pepper and Blackened Seasoning.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
WINNERS CIRCLE, Lakeland
CHAMPS, Lakeland
BEST BLT
Fat Maggie's
1037 Dixieland Mall Lane, Lakeland;
863-937-8962; www.fatmaggies.com
When someone orders a BLT, he knows what to usually expect — bacon, lettuce and tomato. When you want a BLT at Fat Maggie's, it's entirely up to you with what you're going to get. Fat Maggie's “Build-a-Sammi” menu allows people to fully customize their sandwiches. It starts with the bacon itself — it's candied bacon, and the sweet thick-cut bacon is quite tasty. Then it's up to you to decide what's holding the bacon — Texas toast? A brioche bun? A pretzel hoagie? Other things you can add to the sandwich range from a variety of condiments to cheese and premium toppings, such as fried jalapeños.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $9 with a side of your choice.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BLT SPECIAL? We use the thickest available cut of bacon, cover it in brown sugar, and bake or smoke it.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
FIVE GUYS BURGERS & FRIES, All Locations
RED ELEPHANT, Lakeland
BEST CUBAN SANDWICH
Silver Ring Cafe
106 N. Tennessee Ave., Lakeland, 863-687-3283; 175 E. Main St., Bartow, 863-533-4704
The Downtown Lakeland lunch crowd knows if you're in the mood for a Silver Ring Cuban sandwich, you better get there early because a line will form quickly. Silver Ring keeps it simple with a limited menu and its Cuban sandwiches taking center stage. The Cubans come with ham, turkey, lettuce, tomato, mustard, pickles and Swiss cheese on pressed or traditional Cuban bread. You can't go wrong with pairing it with some black beans and rice, or a stuffed potato ball.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: 10-inch Cuban is $4.65; 8-inch Cuban is $4.40; 5-inch Cuban is $3.70; Lunch special with half of a Cuban sandwich, cup of soup and a drink, $5.30.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CUBAN SANDWICH SPECIAL? Fresh Cuban bread made daily from the Tampa Casino Bakery. Fresh sliced ham, salami, pork, Swiss cheese, with mayo, mustard, and pickle. It is the original Cuban sandwich from the Tampa area made with four-star meats.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
HAVANA'S, Winter Haven
CUBAN DELIGHTS CAFÉ, Lakeland
BEST SUB SANDWICH
Firehouse Subs
3615 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-709-1161; 4141 U.S. 98 N., Lakeland, 863-859-1085;
1107 Third St. S.W., Winter Haven,
863-293-8200; www.firehousesubs.com
The sub sandwich chain “founded by firemen,” Firehouse Subs is known for their variety of hot sandwiches. The Hook and Ladder, their signature sandwich, comes with smoked turkey breast, Virginia honey ham, and melted Monterey jack cheese. When it comes to toppings, ordering your sandwich “fully involved” means it'll come with mayo, mustard, lettuce, tomato, onion and a dill spear on the side.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $ 5.79-$8.09 for warm or cold subs.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CUBAN SANDWICH SPECIAL? We steam our meats and cheeses, releasing a rush of flavors, then stuff a serving on one of our toasted, private-recipe sub rolls.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
SUBS N SUCH, Lakeland
MIKE'S DELI, Lakeland
BEST FISH SANDWICH
Mister Fish
715 E. Palmetto St., Lakeland, 863-688-4280; www.misterfish.org
No need to ask what's under the bun. Just know that every Mister Fish sandwich is crammed with white, flaky filets, coated in cornmeal and piping hot. Pass on the tartar sauce and go traditional with rings of raw onion, sliced pickle and a nap of mustard and ketchup. After 46 years of doing simple with Southern flourish, this Lakeland walk-up eatery facing scenic Lake Morton is in a category all by itself.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: A Small Famous Mister Fish is $5.49. A Large Famous Mister Fish is $6.49. Also, for $2.50 guests have the option to make their sandwich a basket, which includes fries and coleslaw.
WHAT MAKES YOUR FISH SANDWICH SPECIAL? The fish sandwich has two buns, and a piece of ice Atlantic cod, which is cut, seasoned, breaded and fried. Cheese, lettuce, or tomato may be added at an additional charge.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
FRANK AND MANNY'S HARBORSIDE, Winter Haven
MCDONALDS, All Locations
BEST BURGERS
Five Guys
2641 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-686-5552;
4660 N. Socrum Loop Road, Lakeland, 863-853-3183; 399 Cypress Gardens Blvd., Winter Haven, 863-297-5555; www.fiveguys.com
The combinations are endless when ordering a burger at Five Guys. You choose the number of beef patties and if you want cheese, bacon or both and which of a long list of toppings. Toppings and sauces range from the traditional (lettuce, pickles, tomato, ketchup and mustard) to the untraditional (A1 Steak Sauce, hot sauce and green peppers). Five Guys doesn't have freezers so the beef is very fresh. The little burger has one patty and is thick enough to satisfy most people; the regular burger has two patties.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $4.29 to $7.79, depending on the size and toppings, such as cheese and bacon.
WHAT MAKES YOUR BURGERS SPECIAL? Fresh-made patties with a choice of fresh, free toppings.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
CHOP SHOP, Lakeland
S&L, Lakeland
BEST FRIED CHICKEN
Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen
2550 U.S. 98 N., Lakeland, 863-413-1763;
3815 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-413-1763;
602 Havendale Blvd., Auburndale, 863-967-4815; 25 Sixth St. SW, Winter Haven, 863-293-2388; 35988 U.S. 27 N., Haines City, 863-422-4905;
www.popeyes.com
This fast-service franchise has kept pace with competitors by constantly reinventing Southern-fried chicken, but its soul remains firmly planted in New Orleans, where flavors run spicy hot. Named for Popeye Doyle, the fictionalized real-life New York detective, Popeyes' traditional recipe starts with chicken that's marinated in peppery seasonings and coated in seasoned flour for an extra peppery bite.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: Starts at $4.49 to $6.49 for leg, thigh and wing dinners.
WHAT MAKES YOUR FRIED CHICKEN SPECIAL? We offer chicken marinated in our unique blend of Louisiana seasonings, then hand-battered and breaded in our uniquely Southern crispy coating. Your choice of spicy, mild, or blackened chicken is served with a buttery biscuit and one of our signature sides.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
COUNTRY CHICKEN & FISH, Lakeland
REECECLIFF, All Locations
BEST PIZZA
PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN
114 S. Kentucky Ave., Lakeland, 863-688-0045
PALACE PIZZA MULBERRY
2054 Shepherd Road, Mulberry, 863-7709-0002
PALACE PIZZA BARTOW
105 E. Main St., Bartow, 863-533-9300
PALACE PIZZA HIGHLAND CITY
5235 U.S. 98 S., Highland City, 863-709-8683
When the people of Polk County are deciding where to get a slice of pizza, Palace is usually in contention. Each restaurant is owned and operated by the Schiano Family. What makes Palace stand out is its consistency. Each restaurant offers the mainstay pizza-by-the-slice options (pepperoni, veggie), but each restaurant offers some offbeat pizza styles (buffalo chicken, barbecue chicken and white garlic). They offer traditional hand-rolled thin crust or thicker-cut Sicilian crust.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: A single slice of neopolitan is $1.85, a 16-inch large neopolitan is $11.99, an 18-inch extra large neopolitan is $12.99.
WHAT MAKES YOUR PEPPERONI PIZZA SPECIAL? The New York-style pizza is made from scratch with homemade dough, tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella cheese.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
J. BURNS, Lakeland
PASQUALE'S, Winter Haven
BEST TACOS
Tapatio's
734 E. Memorial Blvd., Lakeland, 863-686-6958;
6645 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-646-2199;
www.tapatiostogo.com
This perennial fan favorite treats the lowly taco with an abundance of respect, cradling both soft and hard shells with an array of ingredients, including steak, pork, sausage, chicken and beef tongue. Topped with chopped onion and cilantro, and your choice of hot sauce, Tapatio's tacos are no-nonsense treats and an homage to the childhood memories of owner Jesus Vargas, a native of San Diego de Alejandria, a town just outside Guadalajara, Mexico, where he learned to cook at his family's restaurant.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: $7 for an order of three tacos, with your choice of meat, served with a side of tortilla chips and salsa.
WHAT MAKES YOUR TACOS SPECIAL? They serve hard, soft, and traditional tacos (soft corn tortilla) with fillings, such as ground beef, shredded beef, chicken, carnitas (pork tips), fish, shrimp, steak, chicken, al pastor (marinated pork), carne asada (grilled steak), chorizo (Mexican sausage), leguna (beef tongue), and more. Some of the taco toppings include lettuce, tomatoes, shredded cheese, onions, cilantro, pico de gallo, sliced avocado, sour cream, guacamole, and others. Some toppings are an additional charge.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
TACOS SAN MARCOS, Winter Haven
TACO BELL, All Locations
BEST RIBS
Manny's Original Chophouse
5125 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-940-9924; 1100 Third St. S.W., Winter Haven, 863-293-0069; 35496 U.S. 27 N., Haines City, 863-422-3910; 210 State Road 60 W., Lake Wales, 863-678-0370; www.mannyschophouse.com
He made his name with superior steaks priced well below competitors, but Manny Nikolaidis proffers some of the best baby-backs around, slathered in a tangy sauce kissed with a hint of something sweet. Think of Manny's ribs as dessert first, followed by his signature yeast rolls and chopped salad.
— Eric Pera
OPEN: Since 1964.
PRICE RANGE: For a half slab, $14.99; for a full slab, $18.99; for the early bird special from 4 to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday, a half slab is $11.49.
WHAT MAKES YOUR RIBS SPECIAL? Our baby back ribs are slow roasted until they fall off the bone, and brushed with a sweet barbecue sauce.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
PEEBLES, Auburndale
JIMBO'S PIT BAR-B-Q, Lakeland
BEST STEAK
Manny's Original Chophouse
1100 Third St. S.W., Winter Haven, 863-293-0069; www.mannyschophouse.com
Chargrilled and seasoned for extra flavor, steaks are a specialty at this family-owned Polk County chain of restaurants, where fans line up early and stay late for quality goods at reasonable prices. Go all the way by smothering your cut of beef in grilled onions, mushrooms and blue cheese, or simplify with nothing but a dab of steak sauce.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: $12.49 to $22.99. Twelve types of steaks with various toppings, such as sautéed mushrooms and grilled onions.
WHAT MAKES YOUR STEAKS SPECIAL? Our steaks start as Midwest-raised, grain-fed, USDA choice or higher. They are handcut fresh daily, generously seasoned, and chargrilled.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
MANNY'S ORIGINAL CHOPHOUSE, Lakeland
TEXAS CATTLE COMPANY, Lakeland
BEST SUSHI
Gosh! Asian Bistro
4742 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-701-9818; www.goshtogo.com
More than simple finger food, this popular style of Asian cuisine gets star treatment in the hands of Gosh's skilled team of artisans who hand-roll items, such as the Godzilla, a gargantuan treat stuffed with fried shrimp, asparagus and cucumber and decked with a topping of grilled eel and smelt roe.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: $5.75 to $12.25. Gosh! offers both raw and cooked sushi rolls. Each roll is a serving, consisting of six to eight pieces.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST POPULAR DISHES? Our most popular sushi rolls include the Volcano roll, the Godzilla roll, and the Paradise roll.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
TSUNAMI SUSHI, Winter Haven
SAKURA, Winter Haven
BEST APPLE PIE
Reececliff Family Diner
940 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-686-6661;
www.facebook.com/reececliffdiner
Few diners in these parts work as hard as Reececliff at crafting old-fashion scratch pies. Hot from the oven, the apple variety oozes with the scent of cinnamon. The restaurant's bakers give these beauties a special touch with sugary, lattice-style crust that bakes up flaky and crisp. Personally, the only way to go is a la mode.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: $3.29 per slice, $1.49 for a la mode, $16 for entire pie.
WHAT MAKES YOUR APPLE PIE SPECIAL? Our pies have been crafted by the same expert for more than 75 years. They are freshly baked from scratch with our classic recipe.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
JIMBO'S PIT BAR-B-Q, Lakeland
BEST CHOCOLATE CAKE
Texas Cattle Company
735 E. Main St., Lakeland, 863-686-1434;
www.texascattlecompany.net
If you order a slice of Texas Cattle Company's Chocolate Mocha Cake, make sure you ask for two forks because this slice of cake is big. No, big is an understatement — it's huge. This six-layer cake features mocha icing and mini chocolate chips between the layers. It's also very pretty to look at, with white and dark chocolate syrup drizzled over the plate, garnished with two pink flower petals.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $8.95 per slice.
WHAT MAKES YOUR CHOCOLATE CAKE SPECIAL? Our six-layer cake features mocha frosting and a white chocolate topping.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
CARRABBAS, All Locations
OUTBACK STEAKHOUSE, All Locations
BEST DOUGHNUTS
Krispy Kreme
4209 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-607-4307;
www.krispykreme.com
Say what you will about variety, but when it comes to knee-buckling temptation, nothing says surrender like a hot, glazed Krispy Kreme, the melt-in-your mouth pastry that has fed America's fancy for sugary treats for nearly 80 years. Go ahead, try and eat just one.
— Eric Pera
PRICE RANGE: 99 cents to $1.39 for one doughnut, $8.99 for a dozen of assorted varieties.
Flavors: Original glazed, maple glazed, chocolate iced glazed, chocolate cake glazed, powdered, traditional, cinnamon bun, and more.
WHAT MAKES YOUR DOUGHNUTS SPECIAL? For more than 75 years, we have been creating freshly made doughnuts in a variety of flavors, fillings, and toppings in all shapes and sizes.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
DONUT MAN, Winter Haven
HOLE IN ONE, Lakeland
BEST PLACE FOR KIDS
Chick-fil-A
3800 U.S. 98 N. (inside Lakeland Square),
Lakeland, 863-859-4444;
4132 U.S. 98 N., Lakeland, 863-940-2828;
4625 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-607-9300;
143 Landings Blvd., Winter Haven, 863-299-2697;
www.chick-fil-a.com
Despite all the arcade games and smart electronics that some restaurants boast, turns out all you really needs is some delicious chicken nuggets and a playground to keep kids — and their parents — content. That's why Chick-fil-A is ranked as the best place for kids. They've got a diverse children's menu that allows you to be as healthy (fruit cup, apple sauce) or as indulgent (ice cream, cookies) as you want your kids to be. But the coolest part, if you're under 4 feet tall, is the slide and crawl-through playground.
— Jennifer Audette
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
BEEF 'O' BRADY'S, All Locations
RED ELEPHANT, Lakeland
BEST ASIAN BUFFET
Lings Buffet
4320 S. Florida, Ave., Lakeland, 863-701-8787;
www.lingsbuffetusa.com
If you plan on going to Lings Buffet, make sure you come hungry. There are nine food bars featuring 120 food items. Four of the food bars feature more traditional Chinese fare, serving items such as egg rolls, chicken teriyaki and lo mein. Other food bars include sushi, a hibachi grill, crab legs, oysters, fruit and salad.
— Matt Reinstetle
PRICE RANGE: $8.75 for lunch, $15.45 for dinner, children younger than 3 eat for free.
WHAT MAKES YOUR ASIAN BUFFET SPECIAL? We offer nine food bars with 120 items, including a fruit bar, salad bar, Chinese food bar, sushi bar, in addition to a Hibachi grill.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
TOKYO STEAKHOUSE, Lakeland
MEI LI INTERNATIONAL BUFFET, Winter Haven
BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT
Carrabba's Italian Grill
4829 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-646-2518;
1205 Townsgate, Plant City, 813-752-0760;
910 Third St. S.W., Winter Haven, 863-293-6635;
www.carrabbas.com
Constantly innovating new dishes, Carrabba's remains a solid choice for diners who love this chain's streamlined, simple approach to Italian cuisine and fast, capable service in high-energy, tasteful surroundings. No matter how trendy, count on Carrabba's to stick with signature classics like its rustic chicken Marsala, beefy lasagna and addictive chicken Parmesan.
— Eric Pera
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST POPULAR DISHES? Our most popular menu items include the Chicken Bryan, Veal Marsala, Lasagne, and our tiramisu.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
PALACE PIZZA DOWNTOWN, Lakeland
PALACE PIZZA, Mulberry
PALACE PIZZA, Bartow
PALACE PIZZA, Highland City
IL FORNO, Lakeland
BEST SOUTHERN COOKING
Fred's Southern Kitchen
(soon to be Fred's Market)
2124 Harden Blvd., Lakeland, 863-603-7080;
www.fredssouthernkitchen.com
For 60 years, the Johnson family has been dishing up comforting, Southern staples to Central Florida crowds who crave simple, nourishing dishes liked buttermilk blueberry pancakes, country ham, roast turkey and dressing, fried chicken and a smorgasbord of country-style vegetables.
— Eric Pera
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST POPULAR DISHES? Our most popular menu items include sweet potato soufflé, corn soufflé, chicken and dumplings, Southern fried catfish, fried green tomatoes, and okra.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
AUBURNDALE MAIN STREET DINER, Auburndale
REECECLIFF, Lakeland
MOST ROMANTIC AMBIENCE
Chalet Suzanne
4000 Chalet Suzanne Drive, Lake Wales,
863-676-6011; www.chaletsuzanne.com
Boasting a dazzling menu and wine list, few Central Florida destinations are as cute and quirky as this historic inn and restaurant a stone's throw east of U.S. 27. Guests are transported to a storybook, Alpine resort of whimsical, pink architecture dating to 1931. Nibble on house specialties, such as crispy chicken livers, crab bisque and authentic Maryland-style crab cakes, while surrounded by antiques, sparkling, white lights and Old World charm.
— Eric Pera
WHAT MAKES YOUR RESTAURANT SO ROMANTIC? We offer one of the finest wine lists in the country along with our famous Wine Dungeon, available for wine tasting each night before dinner. We serve a traditional five-course dinner and an a la carte menu.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
TERRACE GRILLE, Lakeland
PATIO 850, Lakeland
BEST RESTAURANT IN POLK
Texas Roadhouse
3621 S. Florida Ave., Lakeland, 863-603-7427;
www.texasroadhouse.com
Named America's noisiest restaurant by Consumer Reports' readers, this mega-chain of Texas-themed eateries is all about rowdy good times and no-frills grub, from signature hand-cut steaks to slow-cooked spareribs and 15 kinds of margaritas. At Texas Roadhouse, you get roasted peanuts and a floor show, with staffers breaking into dance at the drop of a 10-gallon hat.
— Eric Pera
WHY DO YOU THINK YOUR RESTAURANT IS ONE OF THE BEST IN POLK COUNTY? We feature the freshest hand-cut steaks daily, fall-off-the-bone ribs, made-from-scratch sides, and freshly baked bread. We also provide larger portions so you get more food for your dollar. We are a family restaurant, and we believe our family is every member of our community.
HONORABLE MENTIONS:
BONEFISH GRILL, Lakeland
ARABELLA'S RISTORANTE, Winter Haven

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